ABOUT PATHWAYS

Have you ever thought about becoming a surf lifesaver? Or perhaps you’re already a member and would like to know what other opportunities are available to you within the movement?

Each and every year, thousands of men, women and young adults across the state line up to patrol Queensland’s coastline, providing a vital community service and saving thousands of lives in the process.

However, off the beach and behind the scenes, there are literally hundreds of other jobs and opportunities available to those who aren’t confident in the water or don’t want to get their feet wet. Whether it’s a surf sports coach, a club treasurer, a BBQ coordinator or a junior activities age manager, there’s a role for everyone in surf life saving.

Importantly, becoming a surf lifesaver also offers many opportunities both within and outside of the movement.

There is an almost endless scope of lifesaving-related careers available to members, the likes of taking up a medical profession or joining the Defence Force or other emergency services, and many of these doors are opened and supported by the skills learnt during your time as a surf lifesaver.

The Pathways project is all about showcasing the opportunities that lifesaving opens up to all, regardless of age, gender, shape or size. We’ve used real volunteers to share real stories about their involvement within the movement – how it’s shaped them personally, and benefited them professionally.

Whether you’re a new member, current member or a lifesaver returning after a few years’ break, we encourage you to look through the countless opportunities that are available for you to pursue, both on and off the beach. It might just put you on the pathway to a place you never imagined.

ARE YOU A LIFESAVER?

If you are already involved in surf lifesaving, find new pathways based on your current role. If you are new to surf lifesaving, you can explore all the roles and opportunities available by choosing an area of interest.

Director of Surf Sports

Junior Club Captain

Youth & Membership Development Officer

Further Education roles

Assessor

Community Awareness Presenter

Inflatable Rescue Boat Crew

Inflatable Rescue Boat Driver

Lifeguard

Patrol Captain

Patrol Member – Advanced Resuscitation

Patrol Member – Pain Management

Trainer

SurfCom Operator

Use your quick-thinking and judgement to save lives as a key part of SLSQ’s Surf Communication Centres (SurfCom), off the beach.

As a SurfCom Operator, you will play a key role behind the scenes, liaising with on-beach lifesavers and coordinating SLSQ’s response to coastal incidents, rescues and major first aid treatments in real time. You will provide an important link to emergency services and will be responsible for liaising directly with police and ambulance officers when required. You will also take charge of monitoring activity along Queensland’s expansive coastline using state-of-the-art technology, including GPS tracking and SLSQ’s wide-reaching network of coastal surveillance cameras.

"Surf life saving made me grow as a person, it’s given me a family. It’s taken me out of my shell & helped develop my personal skills. It's one of the best things I’ve ever done."

JAMES - SURFCOM OPERATOR

Requirements

Successful applicants must be a minimum of 16 years of age in order to commence training.

In addition, SurfCom operators are required to:

Be a current financial member of a Surf Lifesaving Club

Hold a SLSA Bronze Medallion or Radio Operators Certificate and Observers

Training

Successful applicants will be trained in a variety of areas to ensure they have the appropriate skills, knowledge and understanding to carry out their role as a SurfCom operator.